When you dig deep into India’s rich history, you unearth several tales of Maharajas and their lavish lives. Many of India’s historical palaces, forts, havelis, and other royal mansions well-preserved to this day serve as remnants of the bygone royal era. A tour of these heritage buildings is going to be a treat for any history buff! You cannot just get lost in fantasizing about the royal lifestyle of the kings and queens when the palace hotels in India are, in reality, providing you with the opportunity to experience what living as a Maharaja/ Maharani is actually like. Here are 5 famous palace hotels in India that make sure to offer their guests the experience of a lifetime.
Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur:
Umaid Bhawan Palace, home to a royal family in Jodhpur, is the world’s sixth-largest private residence. This magnificent palace set in 26 acres of lush green gardens reflects the royal heritage of Rajasthan. A part of the Umaid Bhawan Palace that has been converted into a hotel features 70 rooms and suites well-equipped with all modern comforts. There are three gourmet restaurants, two swimming pools, tennis courts, billiards, and yoga facilities at tourists’ disposal. If grandeur and luxury are what you are looking for, then you simply can’t go wrong with this palace hotel in India. It is one of the Famous Palace Hotels in India.
Address: Circuit House Road, Cantt Area, Jodhpur, 342006.
Nearby tourist attractions: Jain Mahavira Temple, Mehrangarh Fort, JG Art and Crafts, Jaswant Thada, Bishnoi Village.
Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad:
Perched on a hill 2000 feet high, Falaknuma Palace overlooking the city of Hyderabad acquaints you with the imperial lifestyle of the Nizams of Hyderabad. The scorpion-shaped palatial building spread across 32 acres of land boasts Italian and Tudor architecture, Venetian chandeliers, the world’s longest dining table, a large library with carved walnut roof, marble staircases, statues, objets d’art, and other luxurious furnishings. Renovated into a heritage hotel by the Taj Hotel Group, the Taj Falaknuma Palace invites tourists into a world of luxury and class.
Address: Engine Bowli, Falaknuma, Hyderabad, 500053.
Nearby tourist attractions: Charminar, Mecca Masjid, Sudha Cars Museum, Chowmahalla Palace, Salar Jung Muse
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur:
Situated in the ‘City of Lakes’, the Taj Lake Palace is quite popular among couples and honeymooners for the romantic vibe this palace hotel in India floating in the middle of the Lake Pichola exudes. Built during the 18th century as a summer home of the rulers of the Mewar dynasty, the palace was later converted into a heritage hotel by the Taj Group. From cozy rooms and suites with private balconies to amenities like spas and pools, entertainment activities like soulful music events and romantic sunset cruises on the lake, Taj Lake Palace sets the perfect ground for a fairytale-like stay that you’ll cherish forever.
Address: Pichola, Udaipur, 313001.
Nearby tourist attractions: City Palace, Dharohar, Bagore ki Haveli, Bada Mahal, Jag Mandir, Lake Fatehsagar.
Oberoi Grand, Kolkata:
The Oberoi Grand, often referred to as the Grande Dame of Chowringhee, is one of the reputed palace hotels in India. With classic architecture, elegant rooms, and modern interiors, this British-era building located right in the heart of the city is a stunning example of India’s colonial heritage. The hotel offers 8 types of rooms, two in-house restaurants, a well-stocked bar, live jazz music, therapeutic massages and spa treatments for guests. The classy lobby featuring a 200-year-old handmade piano is among the top attractions of this hotel.
Address: Jawaharlal Nehru Road, New Market Area, Dharmatala, Taltala, 700013.
Nearby tourist attractions: Indian Museum, Victoria Memorial Hall, Park Street, St. John’s Church, Mother House, St. John’s Church.
Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai:
A popular landmark of Mumbai, this iconic sea-facing hotel is every luxury traveler’s preferred choice for a stay, whether they are booking flights to Mumbai[ku1] for leisure or business purposes. Constructed in 1903, this is the first hotel in India to have electricity. The architectural inspiration for this palace hotel in India is derived from the historical palaces within the country as well as the opulent palaces of Europe. Indulge in the world-class facilities as well as India’s hospitality at this heritage hotel that has hosted several dignitaries from the Viceroys of India to the US Presidents through its century-long history.
Address: Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, 400001.
Nearby tourist attractions: Gateway of India, Indian Museum Ship, Colaba Causeway, Cathedral of the Holy Name.